It’s not an easy task to tidy up after a flood, particularly when you begin to evaluate the extent of the damage and spread to your house and personal possessions. Just a few inches of water could cause the need to replace carpet, wallboard, and furniture, as well as appliances if you have to replace HVAC units, ducts, roofs, septic tanks, utilities, and your home’s foundation.

Cleaning Your Floors After a Flood

A leaky pipe, back-up in the sewer system, or hefty rains, any of these problems could result in a flood-prone basement. Whatever the reason, whatever is causing the water to flood, it’s critical to clear the mess as quickly as you can. The longer water remains on your floor, the more probable it will be a dangerous condition.

Floodwater can cause a messy environment and a sour smell. It might lead to bacterial contamination, mold growth, and decaying wood in the worst-case scenario. However, knowing whether it is safe to do the cleaning yourself and when you should hire specialists can help you avoid the worst consequences of flooding.

Concrete or Tile Floor Cleaning

You are in luck if your basement is equipped with tile or concrete floors. They are easy to clean and, when exposed to water, give the best results. Start by washing and drying your tile or concrete floors as soon as possible to prevent mold and mildew from growing.

When the weather is pleasant and warm, you can let windows and doors open to let vapors evaporate. Because tile floors and concrete do not shrink as much as wood when they dry quickly, you can accelerate the drying process with the help of an air conditioner or dehumidifier. Once the floor is dried, disinfect it with an all-purpose cleaner, such as bleach and a clean mop to keep bacterial growth at bay and eliminate any smell that remains. Floor cleaning is a part of flood cleanup that restoration companies are offering.

Cleaning Carpeted Floors

Carpets are very absorbent, so it is essential to dry the floor of a carpeted area as soon as possible. If the rug is only partially wet from spills or overflows, you should get furniture removed from the moist site. Next, place several towels which are dry and absorbent over the damp area. The towels will absorb any excess water.

A high-powered fan rental or dehumidifier might not be enough to eliminate the excess moisture as quickly as it is necessary to avoid contamination if your carpet has become affected by more extensive flooding. You should consult a professional if you suspect the subfloor of your carpet and padding is wet. Click this link for additional information.

Cleaning Wood Floors

It can be more challenging to handle on wooden floors than on other surfaces. Drying times for wood can depend on several variables, including the type of wood and the subfloor type, and the humidity level. Although using heaters to accelerate drying is appealing, doing so can cause the wood to dry too quickly, leading to warping. Fortunately, if the water can be rapidly removed, the rest of your cleaning will be effortless.

If your hardwood floor becomes wet, it is more likely to be a source of mold, which is not something you should deal with by yourself. A professional will use an entire method to swiftly dry your wood floors, reduce the risk of mold growth, and minimize damage. Restoration companies have different kinds of restoration services; visit them here to know more.

Conclusion

When your basement floor becomes wet, it can result in many problems ranging from small mess to severe issues like staining, warping, or even mold. To ensure your floors are safe and clean, call a professional carpet cleaning and restoration service. The experts will help to assess the extent of water damage and help you avoid flooding damage.